Lake Sakakawea dominates the camping landscape near New Town, North Dakota, creating a hub for water recreation in this section of the Missouri River Basin. The region's continental climate brings warm summers and cold winters, with camping season typically running May through October at most facilities. Cabin camping provides shelter options during unpredictable weather periods when winds can sweep across the open lake.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Sakakawea offers diverse fishing experiences with multiple species. At Lewis & Clark State Park, cabins provide convenient access to prime fishing spots. "Fishing is awesome out there. Usually a pretty busy place, so if you're looking for seclusion you won't find it here. We tent camp so we aren't as packed as the RVs but still a great place to be & fish for all the species that the lake has to offer," notes Kori P.
Boat launching: Multiple cabin locations feature boat ramps for easy water access. "We always drop in our boat here. There are 2 good size lanes so a horrible backup person like myself has no problem," reports Jackie R. from Lewis & Clark State Park.
ATV recreation: Some recreation areas permit motorized recreation near cabin accommodations. At Tobacco Garden Rec Area, "There is electric hookups, but no water hookups. We always have fun here!" according to Sarah H., who notes the area "allows insured ATV and UTV's."
Disc golf course: Cabin campers can access recreational facilities without leaving the grounds. "Lots of family activities like horseshoes, basketball court, frisbee golf, and volleyball. Kayak rentals are available as well!" reports GoWhereYouAreDraw N. about Beulah Bay Rec Area.
What campers like
Lake views: Cabin locations offer scenic perspectives of Lake Sakakawea. "Great open spaces. Not close together. Wonderful management. Beautiful lake. Great sunsets," writes Stephanie B. about her stay at Tobacco Garden Rec Area.
Ranger presence: Cabin campers appreciate the security and assistance from park staff. "As soon as we got settled in the Park rangers checked on us. They did patrols all the time around and were super friendly! We had one storm while we were there and they gave us the emergency plan as fast as they could," reports Amurican L. about Beulah Bay Rec Area.
Maintenance standards: Cabins receive regular cleaning and upkeep. "The bathrooms are thoroughly cleaned every night and the park staff are very friendly and helpful. There is a theater area with educational presentations for the kids," notes Matt B. from Lewis & Clark State Park.
Designated swimming areas: Several cabin locations feature swimming access points. "They hold many awesome eventful weekends during season," according to Stephanie W., who enjoyed Lewis & Clark's swimming areas.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Cabin accommodations book quickly during peak season. Kyle O. advises about Indian Hills Resort: "We camped here once, everything was booked online. Once arrived we used the map from the website to navigate the campground and find our spot. Never did see a camp host to check in with, nor did one check in with us the 3 days we were there."
Limited shade: Some cabin areas lack substantial tree cover. Indian Hills Resort offers cabins but "not a ton of trees shade your campsite...that is unless you have been there and know which campsites do have some trees and shade," according to Kyle O.
Lake conditions: Lake Sakakawea can experience significant waves during windy conditions. Stephanie W. notes: "The water is like being in Ocean with big waves," which cabin campers should consider when planning water activities.
Rustic experience: Some cabin sites offer basic amenities focused primarily on fishing. Kyle O. explains: "If you are looking for a campground that has extras like playgrounds and other activities for kids this may not be your spot. But if you just need a spot to hook up your camper and you plan on fishing most of the time this campground is excellent!"
Tips for camping with families
Water safety gear: Pack appropriate footwear for lakefront cabin access. "Bring water shoes if you plan on swimming in the lake as it is rocky," advises GoWhereYouAreDraw N. about Beulah Bay Rec Area.
Evening entertainment: Cabin campers with children should look for locations with scheduled programming. "There is a theater area with educational presentations for the kids. Also, there is an ice cream truck that comes through the campground at night," reports Matt B. about Lewis & Clark State Park.
Activity amenities: Select cabins near multiple recreation options. Brandi M. recommends Beulah Bay: "Lots of to do! Boating, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding. Cabins, primitive campsites with great views and Full hook up RV sites. Fishing cleaning station, playground, basketball, volleyball, frisbee golf, horse shoes, on site store for ice, food and wood(WiFi at the store)."
Bug preparations: Pack insect protection for cabin stays near the lake. "Lots of bugs and flies, but we managed!" notes Deborah C. about her experience at Lewis & Clark State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Most cabin camping areas offer limited hookups. "Fill up your fresh tank at the dump station before going to your site because there are very few accessible spigots near the camp sites," advises Bran P. about Lewis & Clark State Park.
Campsite selection: Research cabin locations carefully for specific amenities. "We stayed on site 362 which is 50A but most sites are 30A," notes Bran P., highlighting the importance of checking electrical capacity when booking.
Extended stays: Some areas accommodate longer cabin rentals. "It is a very great campground. Great fishing, great spots, awesome fire pits and very family friendly... and the rangers are very helpful," reports Kristi B. about the extended-stay options at Lewis & Clark State Park.
